alignment

noun

align·​ment ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

variants or less commonly alinement

1

: the act of aligning or state of being aligned

especially : the proper positioning or state of adjustment of parts (as of a mechanical or electronic device) in relation to each other

2

a

: a forming in line

b

: the line thus formed

3

: the ground plan (as of a railroad or highway) in distinction from the profile

4

: an arrangement of groups or forces in relation to one another

new alignments within the political party

Examples of alignment in a Sentence

The school has to bring its programs into alignment with state requirements.

New alignments have been created within the political party.

Recent Examples on the Web

This approach is echoed by PwC, who, in their survey, stress the importance of clear metrics and reporting to the board, focusing on strategic alignment, risk management and performance. —Rohan Sharma, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025

Europe's instinct may become more skeptical of alignment with the United States on China policy, which in turn may lead to more tension. —Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025

The type of lunar eclipse depends on how precise the alignment of the three bodies is. —Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 11 Mar. 2025

But the Dark Elves plot to capture her and use the Aether to destroy the Nine Realms during the Convergence, an alignment of the realms when the portals linking them randomly appear. —Jacqueline Weiss, People.com, 8 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing alignment

• in alignment
• out of alignment

Rhymes for alignment

• alinement
• assignment
• confinement
• consignment
• refinement
• misalignment
• nonalignment
• realignment
• reassignment
• reconsignment

Kids Definition

alignment

noun

align·​ment

variants also alinement

ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

1

a

: the act of aligning : the state of being aligned

b

: the proper adjustment of parts in relation to each other

2

: an arrangement of groups or forces

a new political alignment